Owning a firearm gives you the ability to protect yourself in worst-case scenarios. Don’t allow a lack of knowledge to hold you back from buying a gun and finding relevant training. Start simple by considering one of these five highly rated guns for women.
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
Although it’s the heaviest firearm on this list, this is a lightweight option that’s easily concealed. Its minimum recoil is comfortable for new gun owners, and it has a nine-round capacity. Its polymer grips cater to those looking for comfort, and it features dovetail sights.
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
Overall Length: 6.1 inches
Weight: 20.8 oz
- SIG Sauer P238
This single action firearm is both compact and lightweight. It features a design that intentionally calls to mind the M1911 pistol, but it accommodates new gun owners with its minimum recoil and easy-to-handle polymer grip panels. This roughly 15-ounce gun has an extended seven-round single-stack magazine.
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length:2.7 inches
Overall Length: 5.5 inches
Weight: 15.2 oz
- GLOCK G43
Despite its small design, the G43 accommodates all hand sizes. The built-in beaver tail design ensures a tight and comfortable grip. Its recoil is easy to manage as you fire from its six-round magazine. This single action firearm has a trigger pull weight of about eight pounds.
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Length: 3.39 inches
Overall Length: 6.26 inches
Weight: 16.64 oz
- GLOCK G42
Looking for something similar to the G43 but even easier to conceal? The G42 might fit the bill. It’s a double action firearm that’s about three ounces lighter than the G43. Unsurprisingly, its other dimensions are smaller as well, but it still features the six-round magazine.
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length: 3.25 inches
Overall Length: 5.94 inches
Weight: 13.8 oz
- Ruger LCP
At less than 10 ounces, this is by far the lightest firearm on this list. Its smooth design makes it easy to draw, and despite its small size, it should fit comfortably in most hands. It features a double action trigger pull and small and simplistic sights, which are milled into the frame.
Caliber: .380 ACP
Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
Overall Length: 5.16 inches
Weight: 9.4 oz
Once you’ve selected your firearm, you’ll want to make sure you know how to use it properly. When looking for firearm training be sure to look for local options with good customer reviews. If comfort is a concern, keep an eye out for instructors who specialize in training women.
Courses tend to cover different skill levels as well as different fundamentals of handling firearms. For example, you might find a course that covers the very basics or a course focused on more tactical skills. In order to get your concealed carry permit, you’ll want to look for a CCW course.
